Many natural waters contain thiocyanate from organic decomposition products and waste water discharges. Some industrial wastes, such as those from the steel industry, petroleum refining, and coal gasification, may contain significant concentrations of thiocyanate. Thiocyanate per se is not recognized as a toxic chemical compound. However, when chlorinated, thiocyanate is converted to the highly toxic and volatile cyanogen chloride.

5.1.1 For information on the impact of cyanogen compounds, see Appendix X1 of Test Method D 2036.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of dissolved thiocyanate in water, waste water, and saline water in the range from 0.1 to 2.0 mg/L. For higher concentrations, use an aliquot from the diluted sample.

1.2 This test method has been used successfully with reagent grade, natural, and treated sanitary effluent waters. It is the user's responsibility to assure the validity of the test method on any untested matrices.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazards, see Section 9.